Electrologist treating chin hair with a fine probe

Laser vs Electrolysis Calculator: Sessions, Time and Cost

Laser or electrolysis? Both can give long-lasting results, but they work very differently, and the better choice depends on your hair color, the size of the area and whether hormones are driving your hair growth. This calculator gives you a rough side-by-side estimate of sessions, time and cost, so you can go into a consultation knowing what to expect.

Laser vs electrolysis calculator

Pick an area and your hair type to compare rough sessions, time and cost. Prices vary a lot by city and clinic, so enter your own quotes under “Adjust prices” for a better estimate.

Adjust prices

Laser

Electrolysis

Estimates only, based on typical clinic prices and published guidance on how laser and electrolysis work. There are no good studies giving exact session numbers for each area, and results vary with hair density, hormones and the provider’s skill. Default prices are typical US ranges as of 2026; in the UK and EU, prices are often similar in number in pounds or euros. Read the evidence in our PMOS hair removal guide and permanent hair removal comparison.

How the estimate works

  • Laser: Most people need several sessions spaced weeks apart. With a hormonal cause such as PMOS (formerly PCOS), we assume more sessions and regular top-ups, because hormones keep activating new follicles.
  • Electrolysis: Each follicle is treated one by one, usually weekly or every other week, for up to about a year and a half.Cleveland Clinic The total hours are rough ranges by area. No good studies give exact numbers, so treat them as a starting point for a conversation with an electrologist.
  • Prices: The defaults are typical US clinic prices. Enter your own quotes for a better estimate.

Which one is right for you?

  • Dark hair on a large area, such as the stomach, back or legs: laser is usually faster and cheaper.
  • Light, gray, blond or red hair: electrolysis, because laser cannot see hair without dark pigment.
  • The face, especially with PMOS: many women use laser first, then electrolysis to finish stray light or stubborn hairs.
  • Darker skin: both can work. Ask for a long-pulsed Nd:YAG laser, or choose electrolysis.

Whichever you choose, treating the cause makes results last longer. Read our PMOS hair removal guide, permanent hair removal compared and how long electrolysis takes. Not diagnosed yet? Start with which doctor to see.